Suzuki
SUZUKI
PREVIEW '89
FOR 1989, SUZUKI HAS brought back its 1988 lineup with three important new additions. As other companies have done recently, Suzuki has turned to parts-book engineering to create these new models, which is the easiest way to extend a range without prices rocketing out of sight.
Of course, the first new Suzuki may rocket away in other ways: It’s a new GSX-R 1 100 that is practically a clone of the Cycle World endurance racer featured elsewhere in this issue. Basically, the new GSX-R mates a higher-output version of the Katana 1100 engine with a slightly up-rated 1988 GSX-R750 chassis. The big Katana engine (1127cc compared with the previous GSX-R’s 1052cc) even receives the 750’s 36mm flatslide CV carburetors, which flow substantially more air than the carbs on either the old GSX-R 1100 or the Katana. The new bike also receives a mid-range-enhancing, 4-into-1 -into2 exhaust system. All tolled, the new GSX-R 1 100 could very well end up ruling the performance world.
For this new 1100, Suzuki combined a Katana engine with a GSX-R chassis; for its new 750, the company reversed that mixture. The Katana 750 is essentially a Katana 600 rolling chassis powered by a current GSX-R750 engine. The 750’s bodywork has been revised slightly compared to the 600’s (different rear panels and a higher windshield), and it receives a larger rear tire and a oneinch-longer wheelbase. The 600 Katana was the best-handling of last year’s middleweights, and its chassis should easily cope with the injection of more horsepower.
Suzuki’s third new-for-’89 model is also the newest: the GS500. Appearing to be loosely based on Suzuki’s old GS450 engine, this new engine has been punched out to
487cc. Its steel frame appears very up-to-date, with a single rear shock and 17-inch wheels at both ends. While top-end performance isn’t likely to be spectacular (about 42 horsepower was claimed for the European version), the GS500 should
be a torquey and practical motorcycle. And if Suzuki sticks to its goal of selling the bike for under $3000, the GS500 should be a relative bargain in today’s pricey market. 0
